An electric wheelchair, also referred to as an electric-powered wheelchair or EPW, is propelled by using electrical energy to power an electric motor. In contrast, traditional wheelchairs are manually powered using the occupant’s arms and hands. Electric wheelchairs are not a recent innovation with early prototypes dating back to the early 1930s. However, a recent surge has occurred in EPW development and adoption over the past 10 years due to enhanced performance offered by emerging electric motor and battery technology and the integration of significantly enhanced systems of computerized operation borrowed from other modern technologies.
A Short History Of The Electric Wheelchair
1930 Harding Electric Invalid Transport 
1953 George Klein Electric Wheelchair
The first commercially successful electric wheelchair was produced in the late 1920s by the R.A. Harding company in England. Although three-wheeled and officially called “Invalid Transports,” they were precursors to the modern day electric wheelchair. Shortly after World War II, Canadian engineer George Klein invented the electric-powered wheelchair known as “The Klein Chair” to assist returning injured veterans.
Who Makes Smart Electric Wheelchairs?
The following manufacturers offer advanced computerized electric wheelchairs:
 | Deka Research and Development Models: iBot |
 | Luci Models: Luci |
 | Nino Robotics Models: Nino4 |
 | Not A Wheelchair Models: Rig |
 | Scewo Models: Bro |
 | Whill Models: Model Ci, Model A |
Electric Wheelchairs In The News
Nino Robotics Receives Electric Wheelchairs Investment
Nino Robotics, maker of the sleek Nino connected electric wheelchair, has received a significant investment from French electric car manufacturer Renault. In addition to financial support, Renault will lend its…
Sources
Manufacturers: Deka, Luci, Nino Robotics, Not A Wheelchair, Scewo, Whill
Colin is the Editor-In-Chief at Electric Guide and writes about electric mobility. With a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from SDSU, Colin presents a unique point of view in his articles, offering both technical expertise and extensive user experience with electric vehicles. Colin also writes for our sister publication Wear.guide.
Send tips and story ideas to Colin at: colin@electric.guide
